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Charred Timber Shelter with Elevated Sleeping Areas in the Latvian Wilderness

Author:
Daniel Mccorry
Charred Timber Shelter with Elevated Sleeping Areas in the Latvian Wilderness
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Charred timber cladding and strategically placed glass create a tranquil retreat in the Latvian wilderness, offering elevated sleeping areas and dedicated spaces for meditation and reflection.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred timber cladding enhances durability and insect resistance.
02
Elevated sleeping area maximizes views and makes efficient use of space.
03
Glass ledge offers unobstructed natural light for meditation.
04
Hallway design minimizes drafts and heat loss effectively.
05
Northeast orientation protects against cold winds while maximizing sunlight.

Located in the peaceful Latvian wilderness, "Viens" serves as a retreat for those seeking a quiet place to reflect. Designed for introspection, the cabin encourages a deep connection with nature. The concept revolves around simplicity and functionality. It creates a space where people can engage with both indoor and outdoor environments.

Spatial Organization
The layout of "Viens" is carefully designed to meet the needs of its users. It features an elevated sleeping area, a spacious porch, and a glass-enclosed ledge for activities such as meditation and reading. This arrangement helps ensure that residents have specific areas to exercise and relax. With ample natural light and outdoor views, the cabin promotes mindfulness and a deeper sense of peace.

Thermal and Environmental Considerations
A small hallway separates the cabin's interior from the outside, limiting drafts and heat loss. This design choice improves thermal comfort within the living spaces. Additionally, the building’s orientation is designed to maximize energy efficiency. The timber wall faces northeast, protecting against cold winds, while strategically placed windows and the porch grab sunlight throughout the day. This practical focus benefits both the environment and the well-being of the occupants.

Materiality
"Viens" uses materials sourced locally to reduce environmental impact. The main materials include pine wood slats, a wooden structural frame, and natural wool battens. These materials were selected for their durability and performance. The inclusion of charred timber cladding provides insect protection and weather resistance, allowing the cabin to blend in with its wooded surroundings while maintaining structural integrity.

Architectural Features
Traditional Latvian elements appear throughout the design, particularly in the use of gables, which extend beyond the walls to provide shelter. This approach connects the cabin to local architectural styles and adds visual interest. The way light interacts with the gables creates a varied experience for users, making them feel both safe and connected to the nature outside.

With thoughtful material choices and design details, "Viens" offers a calming sanctuary. The open porch invites interaction with the outdoors, while the glass-ledged nook encourages quiet contemplation, enhancing the experience of being in the Latvian forest.

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Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

Participants are tasked with designing a prototype home of no more than 1,500 sq ft (≈140 m²) for a household of two adults and one child. The design should be compact yet generous, adaptable, sustainable, affordable, and replicable across diverse U.S. contexts. More than a design exercise, the competition aims to spark a conversation about how homes can support healthier, smarter, and more connected communities.

The total prize fund is $20,000 USD. The final registration deadline is May 20, 2026, and winners will be announced on September 22, 2026. The Next House: USA invites architects, students, and visionaries worldwide to redefine what the American home means today—and what it should mean tomorrow.

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